What condition is characterized by the build-up of nitrogenous waste due to poor kidney function?

The condition characterized by the build-up of nitrogenous waste due to poor kidney function is azotemia. Azotemia occurs when the kidneys are unable to adequately filter and excrete waste products, particularly nitrogenous wastes such as urea and creatinine. This build-up can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the severity of the condition and is often a key indicator of reduced renal function.

Azotemia can be classified into different types: prerenal, intrinsic, and postrenal, depending on the underlying cause. In cases of prerenal azotemia, the problem often arises from inadequate blood flow to the kidneys, while intrinsic azotemia may result from direct damage to the kidney tissue. Postrenal azotemia typically arises from obstructions in the urinary tract. The presence of azotemia serves as a critical marker for healthcare providers to assess kidney health and make necessary medical interventions.

The other conditions listed, such as hyperkalemia (excess potassium in the blood), fluid overload (an excess of fluid in the body that may lead to swelling or other complications), and hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood), can also be associated with kidney issues but do not specifically describe the accumulation of nitrogenous waste